During Aripeka Elks Lodge’s Veterans Day observance and observance of the fallen of 9/11, members of the lodge donated $28,000 to K-9 Partners for Patriots. This organization purchases and trains dogs for veterans with PTSD and other severe disabling conditions because of their service to this country. This donation allowed them to purchase and train four K-9s for veterans in need. Recently deceased Exalted Ruler, Bob Russell, was a supporter of this organization. As a result, one of the K-9 dogs will be named Bob and a second K-9 will be named Russell. Members of the lodge will be invited to the graduation ceremony for these two K-9s and their veterans to witness the veterans receiving their K-9 partners.